Antikythera shipwreck update: Divers discover more treasures from the wreck

Antikythera Mechanism, an ancient analog device used to predict planetary positions for calendar and astrological purposes. Wikimedia Commons/Marcus Cyron

Archaeologists and divers returned to the infamous Antikythera wreck off the Greek coast and discovered that the ship has more secrets to share.

The comeback project called "Return to Antikythera" was composed of a ten-man team of professional archaeologists and divers.

Divers have already recovered over 50 artifacts from the shipwreck including crystal glassware, bronze armrest believed to be a part of a throne, and a pawn piece from an ancient board game, Sci-News reported.

The team of experts did 61 dives in total in a matter of 10 days from Aug. 26 to Sept. 16. The recent excursion, which is much longer than last year's, gave divers more insight about the shipwreck.

Based on the recent findings on the shipwreck, it only proves that Antikythera still has more secrets to reveal and experts have more to discover.

The Antikythera wreck dates far back in 1<sup>st century B.C. and it was found by sponge divers in 1900 off Point Glyphadia, which is on the island of Antikythera.

Since its discovery, the shipwreck has yielded several treasures such as coins, artifacts, and statues that are as ancient as 4<sup>th century B.C.

For more than ten years, divers have tried to look into the ancient shipwreck, but they were hindered by treacherous conditions and investigation was delayed. This also proves that there are still areas in the shipwreck that are waiting to be explored.

According to reports, the artifacts from the latest expedition are now undergoing different scientific tests.

A lead salvage ring was also part of the recovered items and now, it is being analyzed for lead content to locate the site from where it was mined, potentially giving away information about the ship's home port.

A deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) testing conducted on the wood will also help reveal where the ship originated. The same scientific testing done on recovered ceramic jars can also help identify the contents — such as drinks, medicines, or food — that they once held.

 

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